Zhongnanhai YingTai

YingTai of Zhongnanhai

Zhongnanhai in Beijing, originally called 'Xiyuan Taiye Pool', is a royal garden primarily featuring water bodies and located closest to the Forbidden City. The small island of YingTai in the waters of Nanhai can be regarded as the crown jewel of the entire garden landscape.

YingTai was first built during the Ming Dynasty, when it was called 'Nantai'. During the Shunzhi and Kangxi reigns of the Qing Dynasty, it was reconstructed twice, with many palaces and halls built. In 1655, Emperor Shunzhi renamed it to its current name. It served as a place for emperors and imperial consorts to conduct state affairs, escape the summer heat, and reside. Surrounded by water on all sides and adorned with pavilions and towers, it resembles a fairy island in the sea—hence the name YingTai.

To the north of YingTai Island, a stone bridge connects it to the shore. South of the bridge is Renyao Gate, and south of that gate is Xiangluan Pavilion, the highest point in Zhongnanhai. To its south lies Hanyuan Gate, leading to the main structure of YingTai, Hanyuan Hall. To the east of Hanyuan Hall is Zaoyun Tower, and to the west is Qisi Tower. East of Zaoyun Tower are the Buxiu Study and Suian Chamber, which served as studies during the Qianlong era. To the northeast are Daiyue Pavilion and Jingguang Pavilion. West of Qisi Tower are Changchun Study and Shufang Run, surrounded by a corridor named 'Bayin Kexie' and the 'Huaihuang Shuang' Pavilion. South of Hanyuan Hall is Xiang... (text appears truncated) ...due to its location on the lake, with pavilions built closely together, resembling structures on 'Penglai Pavilion'. On the second floor of Penglai Pavilion, there is a tearoom where visitors can enjoy tea by the water—a scenic highlight. The southernmost part of YingTai Island is Yingxun Pavilion, directly facing Xinhuamen.

YingTai features lush mountains, rocks, flowers, and plants, with water and sky blending into one. Its resplendent palaces and pavilions, nestled by the water, present a beautiful and pleasant scene.

Location of the Attraction

Zhongnanhai, Xicheng District, Beijing